Colleague hails Manek as champion

By SHIRLYN BELDEN
SIMPLE, challenging, ambitious and a blessing – that’s how the life of the late Chronox Dopeke Manek was remembered by colleagues, family and friends at a funeral service yesterday. 
The service held at the Rev Sioni Kami Memorial church in Port Moresby remembered the chief ombudsman’s  life of experiences and achievements.
He was described as a legend, champion and friend to all. 
Ombudsman Phoebe Sangetari said Manek was “a great leader who led by example and without fear and favour”.    
She said he never compromised his responsibilities which gained him the respect and status he enjoyed until his death.
“He was a leader who took his oaths seriously,’’ she said.
Prime Minister Peter O’Neill, Chief Justice Sir Salamo Injia, Attorney-General Kerenga Kua, MPs, department heads and members of the diplomatic corp attended.
Kua said Manek’s approach to his work illustrated his leadership.
“His leadership was the kind the country needs, one which shows you are not afraid to uphold national integrity.”
he said.
Manek served as a public prosecutor and later chief ombudsman until his death last week.
He was 48. He suffered from a long illness which forced him to take leave to seek medical treatment.
He was survived by his wife Vagi and three children.